Rayo Vallecano is set to face Granada in the Copa del Rey at the Estadio Nuevo Los Carmenes on Tuesday. This match marks the final clash in the round of 32, delayed previously from December due to Rayo’s participation in the Conference League.
Match Preview: Granada vs Rayo Vallecano
Granada aims to advance to the last 16 of the Copa del Rey for the first time since their quarter-final appearance in the 2020-21 season. They commenced this year’s campaign with a dominant 5-1 victory over Roda and narrowly defeated Tenerife 1-0 in the second round. However, the team has struggled recently, going four matches without a win, including a 3-2 loss to Almeria.
The current situation sees Granada with 21 points from 20 league matches, placing them in the bottom four. They are just one point away from safety, which adds urgency to their survival efforts, as they risk dropping out of the top two tiers of Spanish football for the first time since the 2009-10 season. Earning a victory in this cup tie could help restore confidence, especially since Granada seeks their first win against Rayo since December 2013.
Granada’s Home Performance
- Two wins and five draws in their last seven home matches at the Estadio Nuevo Los Carmenes.
Rayo Vallecano’s Current Form
Rayo Vallecano is balancing multiple competitions, including their first European campaign since the 2000-01 season. They secured a 3-0 win over Drita in their last Conference League match, positioning themselves in sixth place and ensuring progression to the last 16.
In the Copa del Rey, Rayo triumphed 6-1 against CD Yuncos and survived a scare against Real Avila, with a last-minute goal leading to a victory in extra time. Despite their cup success, Rayo has not won in eight league matches, recently drawing 1-1 against Getafe, leaving them in 14th place and just three points above the relegation zone.
Head-to-Head Record
- Rayo Vallecano has won nine of their last 11 competitive matches against Granada.
- Granada’s last victory against Rayo was in December 2013.
Team News
Granada faces injury issues as defender Baila Diallo is unlikely to return, and Pau Casadesus is a fitness concern. Goalkeeper Luca Zidane is unavailable as he is competing in the Africa Cup of Nations. Oscar Naasei returns from suspension and will be available for selection.
Rayo may be without several key players, including Luiz Felipe and Abdul Mumin, both sidelined due to injuries. Pathe Ciss is currently representing Senegal in the Africa Cup of Nations. Coach Inigo Perez is expected to rotate his squad for this match.
Possible Starting Lineups
| Granada | Rayo Vallecano |
|---|---|
| Astralaga | Cardenas |
| Sola | Ratiu |
| Naasei | Mendy |
| Williams | Vertrouwd |
| Hormigo | Pacha |
| Trigueros | Diaz |
| Alcaraz | Gumbau |
| Arnaiz | De Frutos |
| Saenz | Trejo |
| Rodelas | Perez |
| Pascual | Camello |
Prediction
Given Rayo’s favorable head-to-head record, they are the favorites in this encounter. Having won nine of the last eleven meetings, a close match is anticipated, but Rayo Vallecano is predicted to come out on top, potentially 2-1 against Granada.
